Hero Lectro is an Indian bicycle brand specializing in Electric Bicycles. Hero Lectro is one of the largest and most successful E-Bicycle brands in India. They have different models for various riding needs and types of riders, while all these models have the same electrical components. We got the opportunity to review the Hero Lectro C8 700C 7S and here is what we thought.
Weight: 20.5kgs (Including battery)
Category: Commuting/Leisure
The Hero Lectro C8 700C 7S is built on a 6061 full Alloy frame. Electric bicycles are always heavier than normal cycles mainly because of the battery pack and the hub motor. Hence by having an Alloy frame the Electric Cycle’s overall weight is kept in check and makes it easier to accelerate with and without battery power. The frame geometry is comfort focused with a slanting top tube which gives extra standover clearance. The Mode branded front suspension fork worked smoothly and helped make the ride less bumpy on rough roads.
The Hero Lectro C8 700C 7S which I test rode came in a full Cyan Blue primary colour on the frame with minimalistic White and Black graphics. While matte is considered premium in recent times, a good quality gloss finish can make a lot of difference aesthetically. In the Hero Lectro C8, the gloss finish paint job was top notch in quality and was shining. The concealed battery in the down tube was neatly done with no wires seen outside from the sides.
This Electric Bicycle is equipped with a simple 7-Speed drivetrain. This means there is no front derailleur and the rear has a 7-Speed derailleur. Gears generally help in increasing or decreasing the pressure in pedalling and in an Electric Bicycle such as this the 7-Speed gears help in 2 things; for exercise purposes and also to pedal easily if in case the battery power runs out during a ride. The shifter was basic and easy to shift with clear gear indicators.
The Hero Lectro C8 700C 7S E-bicycle runs on a 5.8Ah Lithium-Ion battery which powers a 250W Motor placed in the rear hub. There are 2 electric modes, Pedal Assist and Throttle Mode. The Pedal Assist mode has 3 levels; each level gives a specific amount of battery power for each pedal thus making pedalling easier. The Throttle mode is a grip accelerator on the right side handlebar grip which is the same as found on a scooter and motor bike. Half of the grip is a throttle and is easy and smooth to rotate.
With 1 full charge this battery is capable of giving 20-25 kms in Pedal Assist mode and 17-20 kms in Throttle mode. These mileages will differ with the varied riding conditions and rider weight. This battery takes 4 hours to charge from 0 to 100% with any normal Indian plug point with 440W power supply. The charging point for the battery is on the left side of the frame just above the bottom bracket. The small downside to this charging method is that the bicycle has to be nearing a charging point as the battery is not detachable.
The Hero Lectro C8’s stopping power is handled by Promax branded Mechanical Disc brakes at the front and rear. Promax is performance range brake component and provided powerful stopping power during the test ride.
The 630mm handlebar on this E-Bicycle was of perfect length to give a comfortable riding posture for the rider. The grip throttle on the right was smooth and easy to use.
The Hero Lectro C8 rolls on a pair of Kenda 700x38C Hybrid tires. These tires from Kenda are slick and fast rolling, making them perfect for commutes and long distances rides. The Double Wall Alloy rims were strong enough to handle vibrations of the surface.
The stock Saddle from Lectro was ergonomic in design with the perfect length, width and cushioning for a comfortable ride on any type of road.
Overall Rating
This a Hybrid Electric Bicycle built on a full Alloy 6061 frame with comfort focused ride geometry. The concealed 5.8Ah battery with a rear hub motor has a pedal assist mode and a throttle. The Promax Mechanical Disc brakes were powerful for quick stops and the 700x38C Kenda tires were grippy and fast rolling. Priced at Rs. 32,499 (as on 20th November 2020) the Hero Lectro C8 700C 7S is an ideal choice for anyone looking to buy an E-Bike for commuting and leisure rides.
Prices and Specifications/Components are subject to change by the brand, without due notice.